EP 64 - Lessons Learned from Starting and Scaling a Startup Business with Dean van Zyl

<p dir="ltr">This episode of Leadership Live features Dean Van Zyl, founder and CEO of National Adhesive. Dean shares his experience in building a successful startup and how defining a "vivid vision" has helped him navigate tough times. Being a leader is not always easy. There are always challenges that make up the emotional roller coaster that comes with being a CEO of a startup. The importance of vulnerability and decision-making in tough situations shapes a leader for the longhaul. Dean emphasises the importance of culture, a cohesive team and paying attention to the unspoken topics, like personal relationships and physical and mental wellbeing. This is one of these episodes, you don’t want to miss. So tune in, and let’s dive in.</p> <p> </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Timestamps:</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">[00:00:21] Experienced CEO shares ups & downs.</p> <p dir="ltr">[00:03:17] From down in the dumps to success.</p> <p dir="ltr">[00:06:25] Licensing brand, finding clarity, implementing vision tool.</p> <p dir="ltr">[00:12:32] Leadership team created a product and acknowledged the contribution.</p> <p dir="ltr">[00:15:08] Expanding brands in hardware, aiming for high profits.</p> <p dir="ltr">[00:19:23] Self-reflection prompts to improve interactions.</p> <p dir="ltr">[00:21:49] Phone-free bedtime and structured work routine.</p> <p dir="ltr">[00:26:33] Seed-to-scale shift requires team delegation.</p> <p dir="ltr">[00:37:24] "Choose: sink or swim in depression"</p> <p dir="ltr">[00:40:13] Decisiveness in tough times: keep going.</p> <p dir="ltr">[00:42:54] Right partner is crucial to personal growth & success.</p> <p dir="ltr">[00:47:36] CEO relationship, vulnerability, sharing information, practicality.</p> <p dir="ltr">[00:53:36] Asking for help, routines, and exercise is important.</p> <p dir="ltr">[00:57:09] Upcoming books, podcasts, and giving back.</p> <p dir="ltr"> </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Key questions:</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">1. How important do you think having a supportive partner is for success in b